AntiLabel's Profile

Bio

***WATCH KELLI MARTIN OF ANTI.LABEL ON PROJECT RUNWAY SEASON 5!!!***

Kelli Martin never followed the rules when it came to personal style. Growing up in Columbus, Ohio with little options when it came to fashion, Kelli’s love for clothing drove her to alter and embellish thrift store threads and discount shop finds from a very young age. Despite an unstable and unpredictable upbringing, and with little financial means to acquire the designer garment’s she so coveted, Kelli was able to amalgamate her own oxymoronic, “pretty ugly” approach to fashion, with a style so unique, it could be patented. From her hair to her accessories, Kelli was her own canvas and her passion and ambition pulled her through the many obstacles presented on her way to success.

With nothing more than raw ambition and a natural talent for fashion, Kelli packed her bags and moved cross country to attend the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising where she graduated with a degree in Advanced Design. Kelli had quickly picked up on the fast-paced lifestyle, and landed a job as a buyer on Melrose. Not content buying other people’s designer threads, Kelli decided to jumpstart her own line, Anti.Label, and began paying her way through college by selling school projects and other creations on Ebay; a site in which she still maintains today. While attending FIDM, Kelli was also the recipient of a full scholarship from world renown designer, Bob Mackie. With the scholarship funds Kelli presented a full scale fashion show at FIDM’s Annual Fashion Gala, in which she showcased 10 different looks. Inspired by everything from 1940's military pinups to the late 70's punk scene, Kelli feels obligated to, give the alternative fashion scene a violent shove from, “weird-for-the-sake-of-weird,” into a wearable, creative, fashion niche.”


After receiving her degree, Kelli returned back to Columbus where she opened her own eclectic boutique, Black Market, in which she specializes in selling, “the best of the best,” when it comes to new and used designer, vintage, and unique clothing. Martin is also working on her sophmore collection for the Spring of 2008, with hopes of challenging herself in new direction. This collection, while still maintaining her brands’ integrity, will consist of feminine detailing, high waists, and vintage inspired prints. To contrast the feminine undertones, Kelli has brought back her signature color scheme of deep reds, olive, grays, and black; and has created a "raw edged" version of a classic pinup. Although straying ever so slightly to attempt something different, Kelli’s high fashion, couture-based designs will always have their roots firmly based in the street style subculture.

Female, Born on July 15

Favorite Materials

Wovens, SWEATERKNITS, leopard, DENIM, gauze, StretchTwill, Ruffles, Chiffon, PINUP, lace, Vintage, Lingerie, MORE

Favorite Items

Recently added items to AntiLabel's favorites.